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Woman softball players from around the country will gather in Auckland this weekend for a special tournament in memory of former Otahuhu premier women’s coach Wayne Roper.
Marist coach Venita Hokai says the Taranaki man, who died at the start of the softball season, made a huge contribution to the game.
"He had a huge character in softball and it really took a toll on the women's game this year, especially the Otahuhu premier women, they had had Wayne for such a long time as their coach, so it is going to be a huge tournament this weekend.
Venita Hokai says Maori dominate the game, with up to 90 percent of the White Sox being tangata whenua, but some teams also have American imports who spice up the game.
The tournament kicks off at Sturges Park in Otahuhu tonight with the final at 4.30 on Sunday, after an all star game featuring members of the Roper whanau.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH VENITA HOKAI CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast?podlink=MjU5MjE=
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